There is a famous quote by Franklin D. Roosevelt: “In politics, nothing happens by accident; if it does, you can bet it was planned that way.”
If events of the last week in many local councils across the country are anything to go by, there may be much truth to this statement.
April brings about several opportunities to stimulate our local economy, with one of them being the Easter weekend.
The 4-day long weekend will bring thousands of visitors to our shores, with hopes that last year’s reports of 1 600 cars entering KZN every hour, will be surpassed this year.
Public safety and responsible behaviour at our public open spaces remain a priority.
While the responsibility of police to enforce by-laws remains, the partnership between KDM Community Safety and Umhlali Saps is needed to ensure visibility and swift reporting.
The Salt Rock Neighbourhood Watch (SRNW) is currently undertaking a two-month pilot initiative that seeks to ensure Salt Rock’s main beach remains a destination of choice.
This has been incredibly effective, but it will require support from the community.
Residents can contact SRNW chairperson Nathalie Struwe on 081 509 6885 for additional information.
The other exciting opportunity to showcase the Zulu Kingdom and our heritage, is the inaugural Easter Polo Classic, hosted by businessman Lunga Sokhela, at The Manor House in Sheffield.
Earlier this year, a group of us took on the mammoth task of revamping the Umhlali Post Office.
This iconic building was fast falling to ruin, and the public appeals have generated much goodwill by way of material, labour and advice from many community-minded individuals and businesses.
The project has been jointly overseen by myself and Di Jones, chairperson of the Dolphin Coast Conservancy.
Her Green Team has put in many hours on this project and this bears testament yet again to how volunteer organisations just get stuck in.
The project has been both rewarding and overwhelming, and besides the odd hair-raising or amusing moment, we are very pleased that the project has neared completion.
In my last report, I referred to a number of annual legislated processes due to unfold. It is certainly a very engaging time of year within the local government space.
The draft budget, with proposed increases of 5 percent for property rates, 6 percent for refuse removal and 8,6 percent for electricity, all form part of the draft proposed tariff charges.
In addition to this, the annual KDM policy review will see 12 policies, all with minor changes, going out for public comment.
Copies of the draft budget and draft policies will be available for inspection through various platforms such as the municipal website, public libraries and civic buildings.
In addition, the public will have an opportunity of engaging with officials at community roadshows soon.
Details will be communicated through print and the electronic media.
I can be reached at 073 664 1830 or privi.m@gmail.com.
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